SES readies Astra 2F for launch

Satellite operator SES’s Astra 2F satellite has arrived at the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, where it will be processed for launch on September 21. 
The satellite will be located at 28.2° East and carry Ku- and Ka-band payloads for the delivery of DTH and broadband services in Europe, Middle East and Africa. Astra 2F will also feature a Ka-band payload to enhance SES’ Broadband service.

The satellite is the first of a series of three satellites that will be positioned at the 28.2° East neighbourhood between 2012 and 2014 to provide replacement capacity and enhanced capabilities at this orbital location. Astra 2E and Astra 2G are scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2013 and the first quarter of 2014.

“Astra 2F has an important mission to ensure fleet continuity at 28.2 degrees East, well ahead of the end of life of the current Astra satellites located at this orbital position,” said Martin Halliwell, chief technology officer of SES. “We are pleased that Astra 2F has arrived at the launch base safely and we look forward to another successful launch in late September.”